| Description | Typescript diary, 70 numbered quart sheets loose in folder, with label on front cover: "War - 1914 - (August) I."
In the war diaries, Baird describes his intelligence and diplomatic experiences during the first part of the First World War with detailed accounts of conversations at the highest levels and his own assessments of the events.
The diary begins with Baird's departure for France. He is attached temporarily to the Intelligence Corps and is expected to "join some General's staff" in France. On arrival, he is assigned to Colonel George MacDonogh, Chief Intelligence Offcer to General French, and is initially based at Le Cateau, subsequently at Fère en Tardenois, and from 8 October at Abbeville. Baird records his conversations with various officials and his own views on the developing situation. |